Edmonton Alberta, October 16, 2007

Alberta producers will receive $165 million in transitional assistance to help offset rising costs facing the livestock sector.

The new Alberta Farm Recovery Plan (AFRP) will address the economic strain brought on by the rising costs of fuel, feed and fertilizer.

"The Alberta Farm Recovery Plan will provide transitional, short-term assistance primarily to the livestock sector at the producer level to help adjust to these economic challenges", said George Groeneveld, Minister of Alberta Agriculture and Food. "The Government of Alberta will continue to work with and support our producers and this plan is only a temporary bridge to a long-term, more sustainable solution. Our expectation is that industry will develop their own long-term transformation plan for establishing profitability and revitalization in the agriculture sector"

Delivery of the Alberta Farm Recovery Plan will commence early November, with an expected completion date in early 2008 for all eligible producers. Payments will be based on the 2006 Canadian Agricultural Income Stabilization (CAIS) program information. For producers who are in the CAIS program, the calculations will be automatic and they will not need to submit an application. Producers who do not participate in CAIS will have until December 31, 2007 to apply. Complete program details will be made available to producers shortly.

The Alberta Farm Recovery Plan is part of Premier Ed Stelmach's plan to build a strong Alberta. Other priorities for the government are to govern with integrity and transparency, manage growth pressures, and improve Albertans' quality of life.